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Frequently Asked Questions - The Sexual Misconduct Response Centre

Backgrounder

As of September 15, 2015, Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members will have access to a dedicated response centre, the Sexual Misconduct Response Centre (Interim) (SMRC(I)), which will provide support, advice, information and referrals to members who have experienced or been affected by harmful and inappropriate sexual behaviour.

The CAF’s priority is to provide support to CAF members who have experienced or been affected by harmful and inappropriate sexual behaviour. Although many aspects of the Centre remain to be developed, the initial establishment of the interim response centre will address the critical need for further support for those affected by harmful and inappropriate sexual behaviour. As more details about the SMRC(I) are determined, this page will be updated.

What is the interim Sexual Misconduct Response Centre’s operating concept?

The Sexual Misconduct Response Centre (Interim) (SMRC(I)) will provide initial support to Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members through professional and experienced counsellors by phone or e-mail. In addition to empathetic listening, emotional support, and assistance in the form of information, and referrals to existing resources and complaint mechanisms, coordination of ongoing support with internal and external service providers will be made available.

What is the timeline for the establishment of the SMRC(I)?

The SMRC(I) will open September 15, 2015, and will provide initial support to CAF members. Over the course of the next few years, the SMRC(I) will look to develop the capability to offer 24/7 support services to all CAF members, regardless of location. The final governance structure, mandate, and operational model will be determined and full operational capability will be reached by summer 2017.

Who will the SMRC(I) report to?

The SMRC(I) will operate outside the CAF chain of command, residing within the Department of National Defence. It will report to the Deputy Minister. The final governance structure, mandate, and operational model will be determined and full operational capability will be reached by summer 2017.

Who will lead the SMRC(I)?

The SMRC(I) will be led by a senior civilian executive and supported by a military advisor at the Colonel level in addition to other civilian staff.

Who can seek support from the SMRC(I)?

The SMRC(I) will provide support and advice relating to harmful and inappropriate sexual behaviour to CAF members. Information and referrals to support networks will also be provided.

Will my personal information be protected if I choose to call the SMRC?

Everyone working within the Sexual Misconduct Response Centre wants to protect the privacy of the information shared with them. However, there are certain limitations placed on privacy and confidentiality that permit disclosure of personal information without an individual’s prior consent. As indicated in the federal Privacy Act, some examples of disclosures that may occur are:

Disclosure of risk to your own safety or safety of others;

To specific investigative authorities such as police or boards of inquiry; or

To comply with a subpoena, warrant or court order.

How do I contact the SMRC(I)?

By Phone: 1-844-750-1648

The SMRC(I) will be located within the National Capital Region and will begin providing services on September 15, 2015, between the hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (EST). During silent hours, other resources available 24/7 such as the Family Information Line, the Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program, and local sexual assault centres, will complement the support provided by the SMRC.

Can I contact the SMRC(I) to report a crime?

Always call 911 if it is an emergency. To report an incident of sexual misconduct or sexual assault, CAF members should contact their regional Canadian Forces National Investigation Service office or local police.

CAF members can also contact the SMRC(I) for access to a professional, immediate safety planning assistance, empathetic listening, information on making informed choices, information about other available resources, and information on existing reporting or complaint mechanisms.

What other support options are available to CAF members who have been affected or impacted by sexual misconduct?